CN1323425A - Compact bar code scanner - Google Patents

Abstract

A compact optical code reader (30) is disclosed having multiple functions and a unique shape and configuration of actuators (36, 38) and indicators (162). A system including a cradle (32), interface and host computer, capable of performing various data processing functions involving scanned data.

Description

Compact bar code scanner

Background

The application requires the 60/114th, No. 028 U.S. Provisional Application No. prior to submission on Dec 29th, 1, and this application at this as a reference.The application also is the 09/067th of submission on April 27th, 1, the part continuation application (as a reference) of No. 124 U.S. Patent applications at this, the latter also is the 08/820th of submission on March 18th, 1, No. 048 U.S. Patent application, it now is the part continuation application of the 5th, 744, No. 791 United States Patent (USP)s, the latter is the 08/686th of submission on July 24th, 1, No. 157 applications now are the 5th, 801, dividing an application of No. 371 U.S. Patent applications, the latter also is the 08/407th, No. 577 patented claim of submitting on March 30th, 1, now is the 5th, dividing an application of 600, No. 121 U.S. Patent applications.

Invention field

The present invention relates to electrical-optical and read symbol, as read the method and apparatus of bar code or matrix ordered series of numbers symbol, in preferred embodiment, relate to a kind of optical code reading system of small-sized, hand-held, this system has executable function of multinomial user and feedback signal.

Background and purpose

Code-reader (abbreviation code reader) is well-known prior art, and it is used to read various symbols, as is imprinted on the bar code on label or the body surface.This marker graphic of bar code symbol as a coding, this figure is made up of with the bar in the space of defining different in width a string each interval different in width, and bar shaped has different light reflectance signatures with the space.Code reader in scanning or the imaging system changes into electric signal with pictorial symbolization light one electricity, and the latter is decoded into the information of representing this object or its some feature.These features represent with digital form usually, and deliver to data handling system as input, are used for the point of sale and handle aspects such as stock's control.This type of scanning system is disclosed, as United States Patent (USP) 4,251,798; 4,369,361; 4,387,297; 4,409,470; 4,760,248; 4,896,026 and 5,600,121 have all transferred the application's same assignee.More above-mentioned patents show, the handheld portable laser scanner that this system can adopt the user to hold, and it is configured to allow the user with scanner, or rather, the required aiming symbol that reads of beam alignment that scanner is sent.

Light source in the laser scanning bar code code reader is generally semiconductor laser.Semiconductor devices is little because of its volume, and cost is low and require advantages such as voltage is low especially to be suitable as light source.Laser beam is generally revised by an optics, thereby forms a certain size luminous point in target range.Preferably, roughly the same in the cross section of the luminous point of target range with the minimum widith between the zone with different light reflectivities (that is, the striped of symbol and space).

In the laser scanning system well known in the art, prism or other optical elements are printed on laser beam on the optical path guide surface target of bar code.The mobile beam type scanner, scans the light beam in lines, figure or the serial lines of symbol as mobile light source itself or the mobile mirror that is placed in the beam path repeatedly by the mode of motion scan element.Scanning element can form the inswept symbol of luminous point the sweep trace by symbol figure, also can scan the area of visual field of scanner, or while scanned symbol and its area of visual field.

Bar code is read code system and is also comprised the sensor or a photoelectric detector that can detect by symbol reflected or the light dispersing out.Photoelectric detector or sensor are positioned in the scanner of light path, and it can have the area of visual field of the light portion guaranteeing to obtain symbol reflected or disperse out like this.Light is detected and convert electric signal to.Electronic circuit and software are decoded into electric signal the digital data of scanned symbol representative.For example, the analog electrical signal that photoelectric detector produces changes into pulse or modulated digital signal by digital quantizer, and its width is equivalent to the developed width in bar shaped and space.Then,, digital signal decoding is become data with character-coded binary representation according to the employed special symbol of symbol establishment principle, and then, change into the alphanumeric of information or representative.

The working method of decode procedure that the bar code of knowing is read code system is as follows, and demoder receives the width modulation digital signal from digital quantizer, uses in the software algorithm to signal decoding.If scanning process opens beginning and termination character and the information between them and is successfully decoded, decode procedure finishes and provides success to read the indication (as green glow and/or bleep) of sign indicating number to the user so, otherwise, demoder receives next scanning, another decode procedure is carried out in this scanning, till the decoded scanning that obtains a satisfaction or finish all scan tasks.

Signal is decoded into binary representation with character-coded data according to its specific symbol basis like this, and converts the alphanumeric of information or representative to.Information through decoding can be stored or be used for data processing.

Can carry out bar code read the sign indicating number optical instrument do not have only mobile beam type laser scanner, the built-in detecting device of another kind of bar code reader according to quiescent imaging array or charge-coupled device (CCD) technology, detecting device in the code reader in the past is generally little than the symbol that need read, like this, just can dwindle map by being placed on array or charge-coupled image sensor object lens before.Symbol can read each array unit to determine existing of bar shaped or space subsequently in regular turn by light source in the scanner such as light emitting diode (LED) irradiation.The U.S. Patent application of submitting on September one, 1 discloses the code reader that adopts the imager technology for 09/096, No. 578, and the applicant who has transferred the application.

As everyone knows, the hand-held optical code readers should have a plurality of actuators.For example, United States Patent (USP) 5,117,098 disclosed a kind of system has used multiple orientation triggering formula switch in handheld laser scanner.During sending first duty of targeted graphical, scanner is aimed at the symbol of required scanning, in case the relative symbol of user present position is the alignment scanning device rightly, trigger switch is activated once more, make scanner be in second duty, in this state, light beam is with normal scan or read the pattern scanned symbol, and symbol is just decoded like this.European patent 0355355 has been described the combination of a kind of bar code reader and eas tag deactivator (tagdeactivator), comprises the embodiment with a multiple orientation triggering formula switch.

The United States Patent (USP) 5,600,121 that has transferred the applicant especially discloses a kind of in order to reading the system as bar code symbol one class mark, and this system has the scanning light beam that a scanner is used to produce the symbol that directive need read; First actuator moves to second position by hand from first position, in order to produce first light beam in order to aim at or the location code reader, second actuator moves to second position by hand from first position, in order to start the scanning light beam figure to read symbol.Two actuators work alone respectively.Detecting device receives the reflected light that symbol sends, and produces the corresponding electric signal of data with the symbol representative.Graphic user interface has been simplified system control function.

Yet, a kind of more small-sized multi-functional bar code reader of market demand, it is made simply, cost is low, and in addition, it must be easy to use, and the visit and the feedback of the multi-functional scope of user are provided.

Therefore the object of the present invention is to provide a kind of small-size multifunction bar code reader, it makes simple, and cost is low.

Another object of the present invention provides a kind of hand-held code reader, and it has the configuration according to the external form of ergonomics principle design and actuator and indicator.

A further object of the present invention provides a kind of bar code reader, and it has the data of wider range and obtains, and data validation and download function are simultaneously, easy to use and can provide feedback for the user.

From the description of following general introduction and preferred embodiment, above purpose and the feature that reaches other of the present invention will be more clear.

Summary of the invention

Disclosed portable hand-held optical code readers comprises a body, and data processing circuit and one read a yard module, read a yard module and are arranged in body.Body is generally the bar shaped of extension, and its length is equal to or less than four and 3/4ths inches, and it has the corresponding up and down surface of broad, narrower side and positive and negative end face, the girth of body is no more than five inches, sees from the side, is generally oval, from the top, the rear end of upper and lower surface is circular.

Body also comprises at least one actuator, preferably is two.Actuator is positioned at the upper surface of body, reads the positive end face that yard window is positioned at body.But the size design of body and configuration make user's palm hold code reader, and use one or several finger manipulation.

The hand-held code reader can be used as the part of portable data collection system.

The hand-held code reader can be the battery-driven portable parts that are used to obtain with storage data.Data can be stored in the storer of code reader, and these data for example comprise Universial Product Code, incremental data, electronic coupons data, transaction complete list, decoding counting etc.Have the good data access and have and calculate and the host terminal of Presentation Function can combine multifunctionality and the raising runnability of using with enhanced system with code reader.

Docking station provides the interface with host terminal.Docking station comprises a support that can insert and can fix portable hand-held code reader.When code reader was placed on the support, detecting device can detect this situation, at this moment, can download the data that receive from code reader selectively.If detecting device shows that code reader is placed on the support, begin data are sent in the processor of host terminal with regard to the actuator on the available code reader so.

Data-interface can be electricity or light.In preferred embodiment, under the situation of optical interface, support is equipped with a light emitting diode and a photoelectric detector, and when code reader inserted support, light emitting diode was by the scanning window projection light data-signal of code reader.From the light data-signal of code reader is that one or several light emitting diode indicator by code reader sends, and is detected by the photoelectric detector on the support.

In preferred embodiment, portable code reader comprises a light source, is used to produce the light beam according to reading symbol.Detecting device receives the light from symbol, produces the electric signal relevant with the data of symbol representative.First actuator effectively links to each other with code reader, can manually it be moved to second position from first position; Second actuator that is difficult for touching effectively links to each other with code reader, and its relative first actuator works alone, and also can manually it be moved to second position from first position.

At one more in the preferred embodiment, distinguish first and second actuators according to scanning and delete function respectively usually.When scanning a strip of articles font code, pin and keep scanning period (as 3 seconds) of suitable actuator, to finish recognition function, just, the article counting increases by 1 when first actuator is pressed, and when second actuator was pressed, the article counting reduced 1.When pinning longer period of actuator, scan articles can be carried out different functions.For example, the time of pinning second actuator surpasses scanning and uses 3 seconds of time, and code reader can be carried out the removing function, and just, the counting of scan articles reduces to zero.

Almost start described first and second actuators simultaneously, pin one section preset time of two actuators then, so just can change the mode of operation of code reader.In one embodiment, code reader has a mode of operation and a non-operating mode, starts two actuators code reader is switched between described mode of operation and non-operating mode (no longer working as pinning code reader).In addition, code reader also has first and second mode of operations, starts two actuators code reader is changed into second mode of operation from first mode of operation, and vice versa.

Movable type or handheld unit contain a laser scanning module, and a circular flat base that contains circuit board is arranged in the module, by the semiconductor light sources of base support produce laser beam along first light path to the symbol that is read.The plane reflector of reciprocal vibration is installed in and is arranged in first light path on the base, and the laser beam that is used for being incident upon reverberator causes symbol.A spring links to each other with reverberator, the reciprocal vibratory movement of supporting reflex device.By the reciprocal oscillating reflector of driver that base is supported, driver comprises that a permanent magnet effectively links to each other with reverberator, contiguous its setting of a solenoid.When another drive signal acted on coil, coil produced another magnetic field, this action of a magnetic field on permanent magnet, vibration magnet, flexural spring and then around the reciprocal oscillating reflector of axle.

The photoelectric detector generation electric signal that is installed on the base shows tested optical density.Optical element comprises the beam-folding part that is used for folding laser beam before light beam is sent to described reverberator and is used for receiving from the back reflection light of reverberator and with it and imports the collecting lens part of described photoelectric detector.

Above general introduction as preferred embodiment, however protection of the present invention is visited scope and is limited by appending claims and corresponding scope.

The accompanying drawing summary

Fig. 1 is according to the optical code readers of a preferred embodiment of the present invention and the synoptic diagram of support;

Fig. 2 is the side view of code reader shown in Figure 1 and support;

Fig. 3 shifts out the synoptic diagram that support is being held with palm by the user for optical code readers shown in Figure 1;

Fig. 4 a and 4b are the side cross-sectional view of two supports of preferred embodiment employing of the present invention;

Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 are respectively the views up and down of the body first half of the optical code readers in the preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 are respectively the views up and down of the employed board part of preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 9 has been taken down for the top view of the body Lower Half of the optical code readers in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, part;

Figure 10 is for representing according to the schematic block diagram that is used for the various electronics subsystems of data gathering system of the present invention;

Figure 11 transforms figure for the state of preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 12 is the sequential chart of the locking handoff functionality of preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 13 is the side cross-sectional view of the laser scanning module of preferred embodiment use of the present invention.

Preferred embodiment is described in detail

Contents table

I. actuator and ergonomics in the body of code reader embodiment

II. support and electricity, optical interface

III. inner structure comprises single wiring board and battery terminal structure

IV. light/electronic system

V. master terminal is to the realization and the utilization of code reader

VI. the ray machine layout of column type module embodiment

Numerous characteristics of the present invention is included in the preferred embodiment of the present invention and of great use, Fig. 1 to 3 has described its external structure and shape.

Portable hand-held optical code readers 30 has the bar shaped of extension, its length is equal to or less than four and 3/4ths inches, it has the corresponding up and down surface 31 of broad, narrower side 33, and about five inches of the girth of code reader thick 29 is fit to common people so as shown in Figure 3 and holds.Its front end blocks face of formation and withdraws from window 34 to hold scanner, and its rear end 35 is taper, is fit to be inserted in the support 32.From Fig. 1 and angle shown in Figure 3, it is oval that the profile of whole code reader is generally.

Be appreciated that numerous characteristics of the present invention also is applicable to other hand-helds or fixed optical code readers.

I. the body of code reader embodiment, actuator and ergonomics

Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 are respectively the optical code readers 30 of the preferred embodiment according to the present invention and the overall diagram and the side view of support 32.As shown in figures 1 and 3, it is oval that code reader 30 is generally, and upper and lower side is circle slightly, and Fig. 2 is the right view of code reader, and left view is the mirror image of Fig. 2.

Scanner withdraws from the end (top of Fig. 1 and Fig. 3) that window 34 is positioned at code reader.Actuator comprises scan button 36 and delete button 38.Can send by the Tricolor LED display that light-emitting diode window 40 is seen and feed back to the user.Mobile battery lid 42 another sides that are positioned at respect to the code reader of button and light-emitting diode window.

Fig. 3 is that optical code readers shifts out support 32 by the synoptic diagram that the user is handing among Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, has represented the general size of code reader, how also to have shown the single-hand held optical code readers, and thing easily and exactly aims at the mark.Can press scan button 36 with thumb and begin scanning.Cover region 44 parts of projection are blocked the use to delete button 38, can reduce the possibility of maloperation delete button 38.

II. support, electricity and optical interface

Continuation is referring to Fig. 3, and the tail end that code reader also is included in device can insert the socket of a communications connector of plug 48.Plug and socket can be used for collected light code data electronization is sent to personal computer or other suitable data processing terminals.

At one more in the preferred embodiment, plug 48 is for being positioned at a small-sized stereophone plug on the support 32.The sectional view of Fig. 4 (a) has been represented the structure of support and plug in detail, is easy to make this structure with cut-and-dried insert earphone plug and cable assembly 50.Plug portion 52 has a molded case 54, can snap in or break away from the respective inner walls 56 of support 32.The advantage of this structure is that a common cable itself can play communication role, also can link to each other to communicate with support 32 and get in touch.Whether the switch in the socket 46 is used for test plug and inserts, and when plug inserted code reader, laser scanner was not worked.

Adopt a suitable support or docking station that an additional optical interface can be provided easily.Fig. 4 (b) has shown the cross section structure of this support 60, and figure medium-height trestle 60 has inserted a code reader 30 of preferred embodiment of the present invention.During insertion, the diode displaying window 40 and the photoelectric detector 62 adjacent settings of code reader.Be arranged in the light-emitting component or the light emitting diode 64 of the light path of code reader 30, can send a light signal and withdraw from window 34 by scanner and arrive code readers 30.

During operation, the RS232 output port of code reader 30 can be electrically connected to the photoelectric detector and the light-emitting diode display of the scan module employing of code reader.Adopt signal wire 66 indicated light emitting diodes 64 can enter data into code reader 30.The light that light emitting diode 64 is produced sends along light input path, can import the path on same straight line with the light of scanner under the normal scan duty.Detecting the input data can be through digitizing, and be added on the data sink circuit of microcontroller of code reader, its advantage is to import data can transmit the light signal frequency band corresponding of being sent when this speed approaches to scan a bar code with about 9600 belt speed.Like this, the input circuit of code reader can a scanning of optimization slivering font code and a shared frequency band of optical interface signal input.

Use light emitting diode indicator, code reader 30 can the light output data.Show light emitting diode, the light as a red display light emitting diode is produced can be detected by photoelectric detector 62 by diode displaying window 40, and changes into electric signal and be sent to as signal wire 68 indicated main frame or terminal.

In sum, be appreciated that code reader 30 has two kinds of connected modes: electrical connection is connected with light.Telecommunication mode use cost is lower, is more suitable for family and uses, and the main frame that is particularly useful for code reader is the situation of home personal computer.The optics support need connect power supply supply light emitting diode 64, and it more is applicable to the situation of busy use, and for example, with the central host booth in the shop of code reader swap data, this main frame prepares to receive the data that the code reader of its service transmits all the time.Be appreciated that optical interface support or docking station manufacturing cost are higher, but it is difficult for because of for example electrically contacting former thereby loss or damages such as aging.

The support of other kinds or docking station can adopt above-mentioned electrical connection or optical interface, can be directly and phone but must also comprise circuit, and cable or internet path are continuous.

III. inner structure

Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 has described the internal mechanism of optical code readers 30, Fig. 5 is the planimetric map of body 100 of the first half of optical code readers, represent with identical label with the same characteristic features of former figure illustrated embodiments, Fig. 6 is the bottom plan view of the first half body 100.Flexible button pad 102 is connected with the first half body 100 by contact 104, and button pad 102 comprises partly 106 and delete button parts 108 of a scan button, and they interconnect and be integral by that extend, flexibility, flexible part 110.The peripheral part 112 and 114 of button part, generally be fixed to first half body 100 by the outstanding cylinder 116 in inside, cylinder 116 is positioned on Fig. 7 and the base circuit board assembly 152 shown in Figure 8, excites cylinder 118 and 120 to form one by separately button part 106 and 108 respectively.

Down, when scan button 106 was pressed, the electric switch 150 that is positioned at the circuit board module 152 of bottom shown in Figure 7 was triggered in working order, and same, when delete button 108 was pressed, the electric switch 154 that is positioned at circuit board module 152 was triggered.

Describe circuit board module 152 in detail in conjunction with Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 now.Circuit board module shown in Figure 7 is positioned at body Lower Half 156, and by cylinder in the body Lower Half 156 157 and tab 159 location.Scanner withdraws from window and is positioned at label 158.Scanner module or engine 160 are in the bottom of wiring board main part 152, and it outwards sends the laser scanning light beam by the window that withdraws from of label 158.

The employed scan module of code reader of the present invention is the SE900 scan module of rectangle structure, and the U.S. Patent application of submitting to an on March 24, in 999 09/275,858 discloses this scan module, is incorporated herein by reference.In addition, this scan module also can be the U.S. Patent application of submitting to as on Dec tenth, 1 09/209,243 disclosed " monolithic scanner ", and it also at this as a reference.This scan module can also be following in conjunction with the described drum scanning module of Figure 13.At last, can carry out the light detection by yard engine of reading that adopts the imager technology, on September one, 1, the U.S. Patent application 09/096,578 of application disclosed this technology, and it at this as a reference.

Circuit board module 152 comprises an independent main circuit board 161, electronic component is installed on the wiring board comprises switch 150 and 154, shows light emitting diode 162, microprocessor chip 164, memory chip 166 and I/O communication chip 168.Its advantage is, shows that light emitting diode is a common dichromatic LED (red and green), can produce redness, green and sodium yellow (gold-tinted by ruddiness and green glow in conjunction with producing).Communications connector socket 170 and scan module can be installed in the bottom of wiring board 161 as shown in Figure 8.

Fig. 9 represents the Lower Half of the body of optical code readers, has removed the upper wall of battery case 180 among the figure, demonstrates battery 182 and 184, battery case sidewall and spring contact, and AAA type battery is used in preferred embodiment.

The lateral wall 186 of battery case forms the sidewall that surrounds battery.Little space 192 is arranged on the inner end wall 188 and 190, and the space is a bit larger tham the outstanding contact 194 (positive pole) of standard 1.5V battery, and during work, contact 194 sees through space 192 and electrically contacts with 196,198 formation of conduction coil type spring.

The other end of battery (negative pole) 199 is very smooth, and the coil type spring that stretches out by the macropore 204 from madial wall 188 and 190 supports.

Coil type spring 196 and 200 is electrically connected, and coil type spring 198 and 202 terminates at spring arm 206 and 207 respectively.When circuit board module 152 was positioned at body Lower Half 156, spring arm keep-uped pressure with conductive bumps (land) 208 and contacts, and conductive bumps 208 is positioned at the bottom side of the wiring board 161 shown in Fig. 8.Like this, battery just is connected in series, and provides suitable voltage (being generally the 3V direct current) to the circuit component of optical code readers.

Generally speaking, the power circuit of hand-held battery power supply scanner and other battery powdered devices generally includes at least one diode, can prevent from like this because of mistake battery to be adorned anti-(being exactly that the both positive and negative polarity dress is anti-) caused infringement that whole circuit is caused.And structure has not just needed this measure among employing Fig. 9.Can understand at an easy rate, have only when the outstanding end 194 of battery inserts little space 192, the contact spring that connects anode just works.For not only wide but also flat battery cathode, this contact spring is just inoperative.Therefore, when battery dress inverse time, electric loop just can not form.

IV. light/electronic system

Figure 10 is the schematic block diagram of the preferred embodiment of expression optical code reading system of the present invention.United States Patent (USP) 5,801,371 have described the part of system shown in Figure 10, and this content is in this combination as a reference.In general, the system unit in dotted line 209 scopes all can be placed among the hand-held optical code readers 210, and the system outside dotted line 209 scopes can be placed in by above-mentioned and communicates to connect in the outer computer or terminal that links to each other with code reader.

Hand-held code reader 210 comprises a light sign indicating number and reads yard module 211, and it is the imager or the laser scanning module that have ordinary construction or belong to following type, the bar code that label 212 expressions are read.

Module is by controller 214 controls that are installed in the microprocessor.Controller receives at least three subscriber signals: the signal that signal that the signal that scanning key switch 216 sends, delete key switch 218 send and docking station switch (dockingswitch) 220 send.Can start button by user's finger, communication plug 222 be inserted the docking station switch just can start this docking station switch.

Optical code readers 210 directly provides feedback with two kinds of modes to the user at least: a kind of is the voice signal that produces by one or several acoustical generator 224, and another kind is the optical signal that produces by one or several light emitting diode 226.In a preferred embodiment, code reader provides sound feedback with the weak point or the long tweeting sound of two kinds of different frequencies and trill.Visible feedback can comprise continuous (static) or redness, the amber and/or green light signal of flicker that light emitting diode sends.Acoustical generator and light emitting diode are according to controller 214 work.Below set forth the preferable technology that field feedback is provided.

The signal that module 211 is sent is handled through signal processor 228, and by demoder 230 decodings, the signal through decoding can be stored in the storer 232, and the latter's capacity for example can be stored nearly 500 scanned items (Universial Product Code).The information of relevant complimentary ticket (following discussion) suits to be stored in the independent storer or the independent zone of existing storer.Separate storage has reflected such fact, and before using, coupon data can be stored as continuing repeatedly to scan or being used for purchasing commodities.Information in the storer can be sent to exterior terminal 234 by communication unit 236, plug 222 and cable 238.

Clock 240 can be included in the circuit of code reader.For example, can remind code reader to carry out data termly by the preset time or the time interval with this clock downloads.Also this clock can be connected to display (not shown), like this, code reader just can be used as clock.

V. master terminal is to the utilization and the purposes of code reader

Now continue referring to Figure 10, optical code readers 210 can be communicated by letter with terminal 234 in the above described manner.Employed terminal of code reader and communication mode depend on the environment for use of code reader, now give some instances.

The several types manufacturing cost that is appreciated that described optical code readers is all very low, so just may be sold to the shop user and be used to calculate the sales volume in shop and/or prepare shopping list as family and use.Code reader also can be hired out to the user, can accept within limits according to lease period and get rent (for example, Monthly Fee).More the quantity of the decoding that can finish according to the user is collected rent, and the rent of the quantity of decoding or accumulative total can be calculated by software and hardware, software and hardware in code reader or with shop terminal that code reader periodically links to each other in.In native system, rent is fixed according to using, and when code reader linked to each other with system terminal, rent can be calculated and gather automatically easily.

In a preferred embodiment, system terminal can be a personal computer.By suitable selection communication unit 236 and cable, code reader can directly link to each other with the serial port of personal computer.Code reader and support can be used as cheap and good-quality parts.The application software that is installed in the computing machine can be loaded into computing machine from code reader with data.For example, can this software be offered computing machine by magnetic medium, CD or internet.

Suitable applications software has been arranged, and personal computer can distinguish when code reader docks with support.For instance, personal computer is the code reader data download from having docked at the fixed time, and butt joint can make the scan pattern of code reader cease to be in force automatically.

In another preferred embodiment, system terminal can be multi-functional point of sales terminal, and except client and employee's hand-held optical code readers, point of sales terminal can also be in the same place the input from other various sources with data acquisition.These Data Sources comprise even a clipboard, fingerprint identifying pad, magnetic strips card reader (for example credit card affirmation), intelligent card reader (contact or do not contact), voice recognition system, GPS (GPS), RF transceiver, portable storage card or disk, analog input/delivery outlet, IrDA data or encryption/deciphering system.Terminal output has display, speaker system and printer.

In shopping environment, this system has additional function, as passage that client's shopping list is classified or the Price Range that commodity on the shopping list are provided.Optical code readers links to each other with the market data server, can obtain market product sold data, price data and/or deposit position.

Be that except storage was scanned information on the project, the internal storage of code reader part can also be distributed and satisfied various application easily.For example, the internal memory of 128 bytes can be distributed to application memory.The data that can leave application memory in have the telephone number in Customer Name, customer initiated call number, issuing store or possessory identity of scanner and shop.The identity in client and shop is convenient to user, the indication of master terminal identification code reader and is visited relevant publisher or shop with telephone number.In addition, the storer that each code reader configuration has unique sequence number, master terminal is for example checked the identity of client or issuing store with this sequence number.This identity information can be used for key and lock system, allows to have only the user of mandate to use scanner under the situation of shop of authorizing or mandate shopping.

The application memory that is distributed also can be used for depositing and the relevant data of concluding the business.For example, storer can store the decoded number of above-mentioned record keeping usefulness or preserve every family total sales figure in shop (as book keeping operation or aggregate discount).

Other storer of code reader is used to deposit coupon data.For example, complimentary ticket is imported the code reader, just can be uploaded the electronic coupons data by the bar code on the scanning complimentary ticket or from website electronic download complimentary ticket or when code reader links to each other with the shop master terminal.For example, the storer that can deposit 200 or 300 complimentary tickets can provide and comprise coupon value, the term of validity and valid data.

Below cash an example of process for complimentary ticket.Client can input to electronic coupons in the code reader with above-mentioned one or more modes, and client can be scanned the product of having done shopping with code reader.The data of relevant done shopping product and electronic coupons are downloaded by the market master terminal, and effective complimentary ticket and corresponding purchase are mapped, and master terminal cancellation inefficacy complimentary ticket, delete with complimentary ticket and return the complimentary ticket that not inefficacy do not use up and deposit to the storer of code reader.

The method that other preferred embodiments are adopted is to utilize computer network, carries out the transaction of at least one family in a plurality of markets of shopping side and product or service or the dealer with bar code reader.Identical with above method, will be from scanning the identifier input bar code reader of a product that bar code symbol obtained or service.Bar code reader has customer recognition system (for example, the unique sequence number of permanent storage in bar code reader).Can be with bar code reader and manual the coupling together of transaction terminal that is connected on the computer network, for example, code reader docks with master terminal.On network, determine to provide the latent supply merchant of product or service.Inquiry sheet can send dealer of a few family to determine the price and the stock position of product or service by network.As stock exchange, price and tank farm stock change very fast in some cases, are appreciated that to use this method can in time finish sales transactions.Equally, dealer can use client's identity recognition number to determine whether and which kind of clause to finish sale with.From master terminal, receive the answer of one or more dealer, comprise sales quotation, pass the information of receiving quotation back, give dealer by the payment recognizer payment of using transaction terminal to transmit.Like this, bar code reader by network side sales transactions.

User's formula scanner has been adopted in other preferred embodiments, and this scanner is loaded with the recognition device of certain products or service supplier or retail trader.For example, a tame sponsor, itself just can be distributed bar code reader to user or potential user.In this case, inquiry sheet is sent to specific supplier, with the product of determining supplier or serve present price and inventories, carries out client and this supplier's transaction with regard to available bar code reader by computer network.Client can obtain the answer that contains present price from computer network.Then, client can will accept identifier by computer network and send supplier to.

In a further embodiment, code reader and a wireless transceiver combine and carry out the transaction of both parties.For example, bar code scanner of the present invention can be used in combination with mobile phone.In this case, just will not dock to upload or data download with master terminal or home personal computer by scanner.The user of this system can import order or tender document and directly send supplier to.Be appreciated that client or supplier's identifier in the scanner can be used for above-mentioned purpose, for example, client introduced the patronage market, or the effective client who uses, pays or accept of identification.

VI. topworks's state, timing, indicator and function thereof

Figure 11 is the state transition graph of the optical code readers/personal computer system's of expression preferred embodiment of the present invention various orthofunctions.The various duties of code reader are represented by circle that as scanning, butt joint and deletion system state is by square expression among the figure.Browse that the personal computer operation of credit balance order inventory represents with the square of fillet, can visit by docking operation.This figure has also represented for the variety of option or the response that store under full or the not enough situation of battery.

As mentioned above, the code reader of preferred embodiment has button and some the audiovisual feedback functions that two users start, and these input and output are coordinated mutually, have at least five functions: scanning (as the project input), storage is removed in deletion of items, gets in touch with master terminal and starts locking.Following routine table one has provided the user and has carried out the behavior of function and look/listen the relation of feeding back.

Table one code reader function one user behavior/feedback

The function of carrying out	User behavior	The light emitting diode feedback (green, redness, amber)	Sound feedback	Other
					The invalid param bar code of the effective param bar code of scan articles bar code	Pin scanning key	Flashing green glow-static green glow flashes green glow-static green glow and flashes green glow-static ruddiness	Very brief serge sound, the very brief serge sound of frequency 1 secondary, 1 three very brief serge sound of frequency, frequency 1	Laser laser laser
Deletion, there is not the param bar code in (during starting state) strip of articles font code article, (deletion forbidding-removing starts), (deletion and removing be forbidding all)	Pinning delete key pins delete key and pins delete key	Flashing the moving amber light of amber light-static amber color break-up-static ruddiness flashes amber light-static ruddiness to flash amber light reactionless until removing all records	Very brief serge sound, three very brief serge sound of frequency 2 tweeting sounds are reactionless	Laser laser laser laser is reactionless

(during startup) (during forbidding) (during closed condition) clears all	Pinning delete key 3 seconds surpasses and pins delete key sweep time and surpass sweep time	It is reactionless to flash amber light-static amber light	Longer serge sound, frequency 2 is reactionless	Open laser during scanning, close reactionless then
					It is unsuccessful that main frame is got in touch successfully (receiving power supply descends)	By main frame butt joint with start or by scanning or delete key	Flash green glow-static green glow and flash green glow-static ruddiness	Send very brief serge sound when connecting main frame, send the long sound that gurgles when power supply descends then	Reactionless
Children pin trigger (during starting state)	Pin scanning and 1 second of delete key simultaneously	Reactionless	Just, just	Reactionless

Table one shows three kinds of possibilities and its user feedback under " scanning " function: the bar code of article of scanning, scan an effective param bar code and an invalid param bar code.The param bar code is the bar code that changes code reader behavior and basic function, rather than shows the identity of special article with universal product code.This param bar code can be used for acting on or overturning higher level duty, for example, converts code reader to laser designator.

Table one has shown three kinds of possibilities of " deletion " function: scan a strip of articles font code of input store in advance, scan not a bar code in storer and a param bar code of scanning.When delete function works, scan one in advance the strip of articles font code of input store can from storer, delete one.Can use this delete function repeatedly, from the number of regions of storer, reduce by a record at every turn.In that storer is current when saving as zero, the bar code of article of scanning is pinned the deletion button, and the user can receive the feedback information that can not delete.The startup of param bar code be can scan or delete function and full scale clearance function (as described below) closed.

Table one has shown two kinds of possibilities of clear all function: the clear all function is in starting state or closed condition.When the clear all function is in starting state, scans a strip of articles font code and pin delete key, pin delete key and can delete all article storage (number of articles is reduced to zero) and show feedback information to the user above 3 seconds of sweep time.Make all article that to remove storage in this way, can use the article bar code scanning function to re-enter one or several item of articles if desired.Its advantage is that the default setting of code reader is that clear all and delete function all are in effective status.

As shown in Table 1, code reader provides a locking to trigger, and this system can be used to refuse illegally use with protected data, and prevents the infringement of laser beam to eyes.As shown in Figure 1, pin scanning and 1 second of delete key simultaneously, just can carry out this function.Because the position of these two buttons and cover cap 44 is around delete key, like this, the careless possibility of pinning that triggers reduces to minimum.

Figure 12 triggers the switching timing figure of function for locking.In this example, the state of first button that is pressed (scanning or delete key) is by line 250 expressions, and the state of other buttons is by line 252 expressions.The scanner energising reaches during first button is pressed in 254 affirmations can produce a time delay T.The button of pressing other can produce and trigger lock function other maximum 200 milliseconds interval time.If press second button (as at 256 places) in the time and two buttons keep pressing remaining 1 second at interval at this spacer segment, so just trigger locking.Unless the user is meant to press simultaneously this two buttons, otherwise, just need in 200 milliseconds time, detect the action of these two buttons, to prevent the careless locking that triggers.

Code reader can also transmit some special circumstances, and for example storer deficiency (the code reader storer is full capacity almost), storer are full, battery is not enough, lock is opened and unexpected failure.(when battery was invalid, system was just out of service, therefore can know the battery invalid condition very clearly.) descend tabulation two to show in particular cases user action and the relation of looking/listening feedback.

Be appreciated that code reader can be carried out a lot of functions in the foregoing description, and need not on large display screen, to provide feedback information, reduced the cost and the complicacy of code reader like this to the user.

Table two code reader function-user behavior/feedback

Special circumstances

Special circumstances	User behavior	The light emitting diode feedback (green, redness, amber)	Sound feedback	Other
					Storer is deleted/is cleared all less than scan articles or param bar code	Pin scanning key and pin delete key	Flash ruddiness-normal running operate as normal	The operate as normal operate as normal	Laser laser
The storer arbitrary bar code of full scan is deleted/is cleared all	Pin scanning key and pin delete key	Static ruddiness operate as normal	Send longer 5 seconds of serge sound or up to end of scan operate as normal	Reactionless laser
					Battery not enough indication (during starting state) scan articles and param bar code deletion article and param bar code are removed	Pinning scanning key pins delete key and pins delete key and surpass	The static ruddiness of the static ruddiness-operate as normal of static ruddiness-operate as normal-static amber light	The longer serge sound of operate as normal operate as normal, frequency 2	Open during the laser laser scanning

	3 seconds sweep times			Open laser, close then
					Pin (when startup and unlatching)	Scanning/deletion/butt joint	Flash ruddiness fast	Reactionless	Reactionless
Unexpected failure	Scanning/deletion/butt joint	Flash ruddiness, green glow and amber light 5 seconds (service call)	Reactionless	Reactionless
					Battery is invalid	Scanning/deletion/butt joint	Reactionless	Reactionless	Reactionless

VII. the light of cylinder type module embodiment-machine arrangement figure

Figure 13 represents to be used for the embodiment of the laser scanning module in the cylinder type body.The module of Figure 13 adopts the mirror that is positioned on the lobate spring.Other embodiment can adopt the banded spring of helicity, and spring is on axle, the axle rotation that allows mirror to twine around spring.

Laser scanning module 500 comprises a circular flat base 502 among Figure 13, and it is suitable for being placed in the indicated drum body of label 501.In addition as shown in Figure 8, this module can be positioned on the code reader main circuit board.Semiconductor light sources 504 can be positioned on the base 502 as laser diode 506 and lens 508, and light source 504 is along article one light path projecting beam shown in the arrow 510.

Reciprocal oscillating reflector in plane or mirror 512 are positioned at the base top, are positioned at article one light path 510, and the laser beam that reverberator will shine on it projects the bar code symbol that is arranged in the zone shown in the arrow 514.Spring links to each other with reverberator 512, and around the vibratory movement of axle supporting reverberator, the spring among the embodiment of Figure 13 is a lobate spring 516, is fixed on the module at 518 places.

Base is also supported a drive mechanism, be used for reciprocal concussion reverberator 512, driver can comprise a permanent magnet 520, link to each other with battery coil 522 with reverberator, when acting on coil 522, the AC driving signal produced the AC magnetic field that makes permanent magnet vibration, thus flexural spring and around the axle reciprocal oscillating reflector vertical with this plan.

Photoelectric detector 524 also is positioned under the cup dolly upper reflector as semiconductor photo diode, and photoelectric detector produces the light of electric signal display-object bar code reflection.Optics 526 comprises beam-folding part (as plane domain 528) and collecting lens partly (as camber part 530), and optics 526 is used to accept the back reflection light from reverberator, with its directive photoelectric detector 524.

Abovely set forth various aspects of the present invention according to preferred embodiment, protection scope of the present invention is limited by claims.

Claims (39)

1. optical code reading system comprises:

The hand-held optical code readers is used for the number at every kind of article of the multiple different article of internal storage storage, and the optical code of described article is read by described code reader, and described code reader has first actuator and second actuator; And

One docking station is suitable for accepting code reader and downloads the data that code reader stores;

Wherein, in the process of scan articles, press first actuator each time, code reader is just carried out the bar code scanning function of article, and storage is through the counting of the article of scanning, and, reading the symbol relevant and pinning after second actuator a period of time was enough to start required deletion and removed one of function with article, code reader is carried out a counting of deletion article or is removed the function of the counting of article.

2. optical code reading system as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that, the relevant electric connector that docking station comprises a support and electrically contacts with the associated electrical connector of optical code readers.

3. optical code reading system as claimed in claim 2 is characterized in that, the electric connector relevant with support is a plug that can snap in support.

4. optical code reading system as claimed in claim 3 is characterized in that this plug can insert the socket of hand-held code reader, and wherein, plug insertion socket engages switch, and this switch lost efficacy the code reader scan function.

5. optical code reading system as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that the hand-held optical code readers comprises at least one light emitting diode indicator, is used for providing visual feedback information to the user.

6. optical code reading system as claimed in claim 5 is characterized in that described docking station comprises

Support;

Optical transmitting set guides to code reader to provide data to the hand-held code reader with light signal; And

Photodetector is used to detect light signal that light emitting diode indicator sends so that from hand-held code reader data download.

7. optical code reading system as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, delete a counting of the article that scanned according to pressing second actuator during the item scan, and, according to scan articles during the item scan and after scan articles, pin preset time of second actuator at interval, remove the counting of institute's scan articles.

8. optical code reading system as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that also comprising the light emitting diode optical display unit, is used for sending to the user feedback signal of three kinds of different colours, and an acoustical generator, is used to send multiple distinguishable voice signal.

9. optical code reading system as claimed in claim 8, it is characterized in that, optical display unit and acoustical generator produce the various combination of user feedback signal, so that distinguish scans article, article of deletion, attempts to delete article that are not present in the storer, and from storer, remove all article.

10. optical code reading system as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that, almost starts simultaneously after described first and second actuators, continues to start preset time of these two actuators at interval, changes the mode of operation of described code reader.

11. optical code reading system as claimed in claim 10 is characterized in that, the locking mode that this code reader has a mode of operation and can not carry out scan function.

12. optical code reading system as claimed in claim 11 is characterized in that, the change of the operator scheme of code reader is the switching between described mode of operation and locking mode.

13. optical code reading system as claimed in claim 10, it is characterized in that first mode of operation of code reader is as bar code scanner, second mode of operation is as a laser designator, wherein, change pattern is the switching between described first and second mode of operations.

14. a laser scanning module comprises:

(a) base;

(b) by the semiconductor light sources of base support, in order to producing laser beam, this laser beam along article one light path to the symbol that is read;

(c) one is the reverberator of plane, reciprocal vibration totally, is positioned at described article one light path, and the laser beam that is used for projecting on the reverberator causes symbol;

(d) be coupled to reverberator and the spring that reverberator is done reciprocal concussion campaign can be installed with supporting;

(e) be used for the driver of reciprocal concussion reverberator by base support, described driver comprises the permanent magnet that links to each other with reverberator and the solenoid of adjacent setting, during work, the AC driving signal is added on the coil, produce AC magnetic field vibration magnet, thus flexural spring and around the reciprocal vibration reverberator of axle;

(f) be installed in photoelectric detector on the base, be used to produce electric signal and show tested light intensity; And

(g) optics comprises the beam-folding part, is used for folding described laser beam before being sent to described reverberator; One collecting lens part is used to accept guide described photoelectric detector into from the back reflection light of reverberator and with it.

15. laser scanning module as claimed in claim 14 is characterized in that, by with the light pulse decoded data docking station of data from system being inputed to this module, and when reverberator does not vibrate, the light arteries and veins is introduced photoelectric detector.

16. laser scanning module as claimed in claim 15 is characterized in that data are imported with baud rate, this speed approaches to obtain from bar code the baud rate of data.

17. a bar code reader comprises:

One light source is used to produce light beam and is incident upon the symbol that is read;

One detecting device is used to accept the reflected light from symbol, to produce the corresponding electric signal of data with symbology;

First actuator links to each other with code reader, can manually it be moved to the second place from primary importance; And

Second actuator links to each other with code reader, and relative first actuator works alone, and can by hand it be moved to the second place from primary importance;

Wherein, almost start described first and second actuators simultaneously, continue to start preset time of these two actuators more at interval, change the mode of operation of described code reader.

18. bar code reader as claimed in claim 17 is characterized in that, this code reader has mode of operation and non-operating mode, and wherein, the pattern change is the change between described mode of operation and the non-operating mode.

19. bar code reader as claimed in claim 17 is characterized in that, code reader has first and second mode of operations, and wherein, the change of pattern is the change between described first mode of operation and described second mode of operation.

20. the portable system for processor collection data comprises:

Battery-driven portable parts are used to obtain and storage data; And

One docking station, described docking station comprise and be suitable for accepting and the support of fixing portable parts, and described system comprises be used for the detecting device that detects when portable parts are placed on support; Be used for when portable parts are placed on support data download device from portable parts data download; And be positioned at actuator on the portable parts, only be used for when detecting device shows that portable parts are placed on support log-on data to the transmission of processor.

21. system as claimed in claim 20 is characterized in that, this support comprises:

Being suitable for accepting portable parts makes its end be inserted in body in the body; And

The combination of plug and cable, wherein, this plug snaps in the engagement device that described body forms.

22. system as claimed in claim 21 is characterized in that, this plug and cable are molded into one, and plug engages with body separatably by the engagement device of body, and like this, the combination of this plug and cable can be independent of the support data download.

23. system as claimed in claim 20 is characterized in that, battery powered portable parts comprise the conductive contact of only accepting one of anode end and negative pole end.

24. system as claimed in claim 23 is characterized in that, the acceptable battery in contact is extremely extreme for what stretch out from battery body; The described hole of same size of extremely stretching into is to reach the conduction contact condition; It is extreme that this hole can not hold larger sized another battery.

25. a portable hand-held optical code readers comprises:

Body and read a yard module is read a yard module and is installed in the body, and wherein, the body profile is stretched to below five inches, has the upper and lower surface of broad, and narrower side and front and back ends, its girth are no more than five inches; See that from the side body profile ovalize is seen the upper and lower surface rear end for circular from the top, described body also comprises:

At least one actuator, actuator are positioned at the body upper surface; And

Read a yard window, be positioned at the front end face of body, it is hand-held and with a finger manipulation actuator that the size of body and configuration are suitable for the user.

26. equipment as claimed in claim 25 is characterized in that also comprising a support that can insert code reader, this support comprises when code reader is inserted in support the electric contact from the code reader data download.

27. equipment as claimed in claim 25 is characterized in that also comprising a master terminal that links to each other with optical code readers, wherein, at least one master terminal and code reader calculate the decoded number that code reader is finished, and are used for determining to use the rent of code reader.

28. a sales transactions system that uses electronic coupons comprises:

One portable hand-held optical code readers is used to scan the different product bar code corresponding with dissimilar article, comprises that trading time period is used to store the first memory of every class number of articles, and the second memory that is used to store the data corresponding with electronic coupons; And

One main frame is used to receive from the type of the scan articles of code reader storer and the related data and the data relevant with electronic coupons of quantity, and is that the article that scanned are exchanged complimentary ticket.

29. a method of handling electronic coupons, described electronic coupons is relevant with the product that is scanned and buys, and described method comprises:

Described electronic coupons is read in the storer of hand-held optical code readers;

Scan the product ID on the described product, and described identification code is deposited in the storer of hand-held optical code readers;

From the hand-held optical code readers electronic coupons and the product ID of being bought are downloaded to master terminal; And

With the electronic coupons downloaded and product ID in main frame electronic match to exchange complimentary ticket.

30. method as claimed in claim 29 is characterized in that, electronic coupons is to be read during by the scanning printed bar code relevant with complimentary ticket.

31. method as claimed in claim 29 is characterized in that, electronic coupons is to be read when uploading numerical data to the storer of hand-held optical code readers from the internet.

32. method as claimed in claim 29 is characterized in that, electronic coupons is to be read when uploading numerical data to the storer of hand-held optical code readers from master terminal.

33. method as claimed in claim 29 is characterized in that, the term of validity relevant with electronic coupons also is read in the storer of hand-held optical code readers.

34. method as claimed in claim 29 is characterized in that, handles and the multinomial relevant multinomial electronic coupons of product of purchasing.

35. method as claimed in claim 34 is characterized in that, the term of validity relevant with each electronic coupons also is read in the storer of hand-held optical code readers.

36. method as claimed in claim 35, it is characterized in that, purchase to some extent and product be downloaded to master terminal with the codes all electronic coupons and the term of validity, master terminal mates the not out of date electronic coupons of purchasing product and download to exchange described complimentary ticket, and master terminal will not use, not out of date electronic coupons is uploaded in the storer of hand-held optical code readers.

37. a method of using bar code reader, described method utilize computer network to provide convenience at least one dealer of a plurality of dealer of product or service and the transaction between the buyer, described method comprises:

Will be from scanning the identifier input bar code reader of a product that bar code symbol obtained or service;

Bar code reader provides client identifier;

With bar code reader and manual the coupling together of transaction terminal that is connected on the computer network;

On network, determine to provide the latent supply merchant of product or service;

Transmitting inquiry sheet by network gives how tame dealer to determine the price and the stock position of product or service;

From terminal, receive answer, comprise sales quotation from one or more dealer;

Transmit the information of accepting one of described quotation; And

Give described one tame dealer by the payment identifier payment of using transaction terminal to transmit.

38. a method of using bar code reader, described method utilize computer network to provide convenience for the supplier of product or service or the transaction between the retail trader and the buyer, described method comprises:

Will be from scanning the identifier input bar code reader of a product that bar code symbol obtained or service;

Bar code reader provides client's identifier, payment identifier and supplier's identifier;

Transmitting inquiry sheet by network gives supplier to determine the present price and the stock position of product or service;

Answer by network reception supplier comprises present price;

Transmit the reception identifier by network and give supplier.

39. a method of using comprehensive bar code reader and wireless communication transceiver unit to provide convenience as the dealer and the transaction between the buyer of product or service in computer network, it comprises:

To import described unit from the identifier that scans a product that bar code symbol obtained or service;

Described unit provides client identifier;

Link to each other with network by radio communication, can supply product or service with the firm sale merchant;

Transmit inquiry sheet to determine the present price of product or service by network;

Described unit receives the answer from one or more dealer, comprises sales quotation; And

Transmit the information that receives one of described quotation.

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